Multipoint Door Handle Installation Guide

Published: October 2023 | Last Reviewed: August 2025

This post is part of our regularly reviewed content series, ensuring all advice remains accurate and relevant to your home project.

Author: Carl Benson

Carl is the founder of Suffolk Latch Company, with a background in engineering and over 20 years' experience in home hardware.

He works closely with suppliers and designers to develop quality ironmongery. Read Carl's full bio.

Carl Benson

How to Install a Multipoint Door Handle

Table of Contents

Materials and Tools Needed

  • Multipoint door handles
  • Screwdriver
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil or marker
  • Drill and appropriately sized drill bits

Steps to Install the Multipoint Door Handle

1. Preparation

  • Check that the new handle is the correct size and type for your door.
  • Make sure the handle centre to keyhole centre measurement matches your existing door. This is also known as the PZ measurement.
  • Remove any obstacles around the door so you have enough space to work.
  • Block the latch on the door mechanism to stop the door accidentally shutting while you work.
  • This can be done with tape, or by safely propping the door open.

2. Remove the Old Handle

  • Using a screwdriver, remove the fixing screws on the interior side of the door.
  • These are usually located above and below the handle spindle.
  • A screwdriver is recommended to avoid damaging the multipoint lock.
  • There may be a grub screw under the handle. This can usually be loosened with a compatible Allen key.
  • Once the screws are removed, gently pull both the internal and external handles away from the door.
  • Keep the existing spindle in case it is needed during installation.

Removing a multipoint door handle

3. Check the Holes

  • If your door already has pre-drilled holes for a bolt-through fixing, you can move to the next step.
  • If not, use the new handle as a template and mark the fixing positions carefully.
  • Drill the holes using an appropriately sized drill bit.
  • The holes should allow the bolt-through fixings to pass through cleanly and align with the opposite handle.

4. Install the New Handle

  • Position the exterior part of the handle onto the door, aligning the spindle and screw holes.
  • Hold the exterior handle in place while positioning the interior handle on the other side.
  • Check that the screw holes line up correctly.
  • Start threading the bolt-through screws by hand to make sure they are aligned.
  • Tighten the screws with a screwdriver, taking care not to overtighten them.

New multipoint door handles fitted to a door

5. Test the Handle

  • Before completing the installation, test the handle movement.
  • Turn the handle to check that it moves smoothly and does not catch.
  • Lock and unlock the door using the key to make sure the mechanism works correctly.

6. Make Final Adjustments

  • If the handle feels stiff or does not align correctly, check the positioning.
  • Loosen and realign the handle if needed.
  • Check that the screws have not been overtightened.
  • If your handle includes gaskets or washers, make sure these are positioned correctly.

7. Finishing Up

  • Once you are happy with the installation, clean the work area.
  • Put away all tools and check the door again before regular use.

Tips

  • Always measure twice before drilling.
  • Use a pilot hole when drilling new fixing holes.
  • Do not overtighten the screws, as this can damage the handle or door.
  • Consult a professional if you are unsure about the installation.

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